Lofts for rent at University Commons

For nearly 75 years the sprawling complex that’s now University Commons was South Water Market, six warehouse buildings that formed the city’s major produce distribution center. In the mid-2000s the Fugard and Knapp-designed buildings were converted into 926 condominiums, and their ornate terra cotta facades were restored. An additional floor was created atop the existing buildings and underground parking below them.

The buildings remain a major distribution center of sour grapes on the part of condo owners who once dreamed of appreciation but have been plagued by falling prices, foreclosures and short sales. One result of the difficult resale market at University Commons is that quite a few units have entered the rental market.

Unit finishes, views, pet policies and fees differ from unit-to-unit. The longest of the buildings is over 800 feet, so the units vary substantially in distance from the University Village retail and dining scene along Halsted St and Maxwell St.

If you’d like to check periodically on the availability of rentals at University Commons, the six buildings have the following 12 addresses: 1033, 1069, 1111 and 1151 W 14th Pl; 1000, 1001, 1070, 1071, 1110, 1111, 1150 and 1151 W 15th St.